Title: Global warming, and role of supplementary cementing materials and superplasticisers in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the manufacturing of portland cement

Authors: V.M. Malhotra

Addresses: Scientist Emeritus, CANMET, 46, Lynwood Avenue, Ottawa Ontario, K1Y 2B3, Canada

Abstract: This paper discusses some aspects of global-warming, and the role of supplementary cementing materials and superplasticisers in reducing greenhouse gas emissions to the atmosphere. The data are presented as to the CO₂ emissions per capita per year from various countries. Also, the relative information is given on the availability of cement and supplementary cementing materials worldwide. The paper mentions very briefly the development of high-performance, high-volume fly ash (HVFA) concrete that incorporates large dosages of superplasticisers. The use of HVFA concrete can reduce very significantly the use of cement in concrete, thus contributing to the reduction in the greenhouse gas emissions. The paper is concluded by referring to the tradable emission rights and the utilisation of fly ash.

Keywords: CO2 emissions; carbon dioxide; carbon emissions; HVFA concrete; environmental pollution; fly ash; global warming; portland cement; supplementary cementing materials; sustainable development; sustainability; superplasticisers; greenhouse gas emissions; tradable emission rights; structural engineering.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSTRUCTE.2010.031480

International Journal of Structural Engineering, 2010 Vol.1 No.2, pp.116 - 130

Published online: 05 Feb 2010 *

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